Space saver vacuum bags are a great way to store items without taking up too much storage space. In fact, a vacuum sealed bag can actually reduce the amount of storage space needed by 50%. To use a space saver vacuum packed bag, simply pack the bag with suitable items, seal the bag using a vacuum cleaner, and then store the bag in a safe and cool place.[1]

Choose a type of space saver vacuum bag. These bags come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, most notably the flat storage bag, the cube bag with a flat bottom, and the storage tote. Which bag you choose will likely depend on the items being stored.[2]

For instance, flat bags are excellent for clothing, whereas cubes and totes are best for larger items, such as blankets.

Close the bag. Firmly grasp the sure-zip slider using your thumb and index finger. Then, slide the zipper across the top of the bag. Make sure to slide the zipper back and forth at least twice. Press down a little harder to ensure a tight seal has been made, and no air will leak out.[7]

If the sure-zip slider piece comes off while closing the bag, simply slide it back onto the bag. Press it back onto the zipper track over the top of the bag. You should hear it click twice.[8]

Place the vacuum hose into the valve. Remove all attachments from your vacuum and place the circular hose onto the valve. Make sure to place the hose in the center of the valve. The circular end of the hose should completely fill the valve.

Turn on the vacuum. Once the vacuum is turned on, you will see the bag begin to shrink as air is removed. When the bag stops shrinking, this signals that you have completed the sealing process. At this point you can turn off the vacuum.[11]

When placing down-pillows or down-comforters into the bag, don't empty all of the air from the bag. Only compress the air in the bag to fifty percent its original size, as further compression will damage the down feathers.

Remove the hose and close the lid. Once you have finished vacuum sealing the bag, remove the vacuum hose from the valve and close the lid on the bag. This will prevent any air from escaping the bag.[12]

Store on a smooth surface. You can store space saver vacuum bags on a smooth and flat surface, such as a closet, cupboard, or under a bed. This way the bag is less likely to get punctured and ruined. Make sure there are no sharp objects placed near the bags.[13]

Don’t store near a heat source. Heat can melt the plastic bag and/or valve. Even if the bag does not completely melt, heat can weaken the plastic making it more susceptible to punctures and leaks. As a result, you should not store bags outside, or near vents or active electrical outlets.[14]

Keep away from children. Space saver bags are made from plastic and could become hazardous to children, if left unsupervised. Make sure these bags are stored up high and out of the reach of young children.[15]

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Community Q&A

Either use the seal and press the bag while it's pulling the air out to get it to retain shape, or if you have the kind you're supposed to roll, gently sit on it on the bed so it pushes the air out and stays flat.

If your slider is not working, use your fingers and manually slide them across the zipper. You should be able to feel the zipper closing If this does not work there may be a problem with the zipper itself.

I have just opened a pack of dunelm storeaway travel vacuum bags and there is nowhere to suck the air out. On the box, it says to seal the zip lock and roll the bag to move out of the one way air system. How do I do this?